Full Breakdown
Fantasy Football 2025: Key Players and Performance Highlights
12/31/2025, 10:39:21 PM
Waiver Wire Impact Players
In the 2025 Fantasy football season, the waiver wire proved crucial for many players seeking championship success. Notable additions included Matthew Stafford, who emerged as the No. 2 Fantasy quarterback, and Jacoby Brissett, who took over for Kyler Murray and consistently scored over 20 Fantasy points in 10 of his 11 starts. Jaxson Dart also made a significant impact as the starting quarterback for the Giants, averaging 21.8 Fantasy points in eight of his 11 games.
Running backs such as Chuba Hubbard and Malik Dowdle also made headlines. Dowdle, stepping in for an injured Hubbard, became a reliable No. 2 Fantasy running back, scoring at least 12.4 PPR points in six of his last 12 outings. Kenneth Gainwell had a standout performance in Week 4, scoring 31.4 PPR points, and continued to excel as the Steelers' top running back.
Rookie Standouts
The 2025 season saw several rookies shine, with Harvey earning the title of Rookie of the Year. He averaged 18.9 PPR points over his final five games, including six touchdowns. Other notable rookies included Fannin, Egbuka, and McMillan, all of whom made significant contributions. Fannin finished as the top rookie tight end, scoring at least 11 PPR points in each of his last five games.
Despite injuries, players like Hampton and Judkins showed potential, with Hampton scoring at least 16.5 PPR points in four of his nine games. Jeanty, despite being labeled a bust due to high expectations, still ranked as the No. 13 running back in total PPR points.
Fantasy MVP Candidates
The competition for Fantasy MVP in 2025 was fierce, with Christian McCaffrey ultimately taking the title. He averaged 25.3 PPR points per game, leading all non-quarterbacks and finishing with 17 total touchdowns. Other candidates included Bijan Robinson, who led the NFL in total yards, and Puka Nacua, who topped all receivers with 23.3 PPR points per game.
Quarterback Josh Allen narrowly edged out Stafford and Drake Maye for the top spot, showcasing his ability to perform with limited talent around him. Allen led all quarterbacks in rushing yards and touchdowns, while Stafford had a remarkable season at age 37, finishing with 42 passing touchdowns.
Criticism and Future Outlook
While many players excelled, some faced criticism. Jeanty, despite his total points, did not meet the lofty expectations set for him as a top draft pick. Similarly, Thomas and McConkey struggled to replicate their previous year's success, raising concerns about their future performance.
Looking ahead, the 2026 season promises to be exciting, with many rookies and established players poised to build on their 2025 performances. Fantasy managers will be keen to see how these players adapt and improve, particularly those who faced challenges this past season.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Dobbins (foot) was lost for the season, Harvey became a must-start Fantasy option at the right time of the year.” — CBS Sports
- “While Jeanty has to be considered a bust for the season given the lofty expectations -- his CBS Sports Average Draft Position was No.” — CBS Sports
The 2025 Fantasy football season highlighted the importance of strategic roster management, particularly through the waiver wire, and set the stage for an intriguing 2026 season.
